THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala will set up an international Women's Trade Centre (iWTC) in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Kozhikode. The first phase is scheduled to be completed by 2021.
A key project of the state's Gender Park under the Department of Social Justice, it is conceived as a safe space away from home for women to try their entrepreneurial skills, set up or expand businesses and get their products marketed globally.
In its piloting year, it will help flood-affected women and provide them with opportunities for livelihood and entrepreneurship.
Gender Park CEO P.T. Mohammed Sunish said it would be a world class shopping destination. "The facility will have women's start-up and incubation centre, retail fashion and technology outlets, health and wellness centres, business centres and offices, conference/convention/exhibition spaces, performing arts centre, residential suites and day care for seniors and children. We are seeking financial support for the project from relevant institutions."
iWTC will help women entrepreneurs to participate in international trade. It lays emphasis on hand-holding and bringing economically backward women, marginalised groups, women with disabilities and transgender persons to the forefront.
iWTC will also have a dedicated space for cultural expressions of women to promote and showcase performing arts and cultural forms like dance, music and theatre. Adhering to green protocol, iWTC will be housed in an environment-friendly and resource- efficient building.
"This is a fine concept," said choreographer and activist Mallika Sarabhai, who is an advisor to the Gender Park. She was on a visit to the state recently in connection with the launch of some of the Gender Park's schemes.
In September 2015, the UN General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda, which includes 17 SDGs to transform the world, building on the principle of "leaving no one behind". It is a call for action by all countries to promote prosperity while protecting the planet.
Transportation will be available for women who work late and long and short stay accommodation for others.
